A Private Luxury 9 Day 'Outlander' Themed Tour of Scotland

PRIVATE WALKING TOUR OF EDINBURGH NEW TOWN AND THE ROYAL MILE INCLUDING EDINBURGH CASTLE

Private Half Day Edinburgh Walking Tour. Your tour, with an expert  local guide, will explore the city’s main attractions on or around the Royal Mile including The Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Scottish Parliament and of course Edinburgh Castle. Entrances are included to Edinburgh Castle only to allow for flexibility.

Bakehouse Close aka Jamie’s Print Shop, Season 3: Bakehouse Close, just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, was the setting for Jamie’s Print Shop and where we saw Claire reunited with Jamie after years of separation. This is one of the best-preserved closes in the city and was transformed into busy 18th century Edinburgh for exterior shots of the Print Shop. Why not visit the fascinating Museum of Edinburgh next door.

Tweeddale Court (Season 3 & 4): The hustle and bustle of the market where Claire is reunited with Fergus was filmed in Tweeddale Court. The entrance to this time capsule of a street is from Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. Take time to explore one of the oldest parts of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe, set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away. Standing on its great rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland’s capital. Great events have taken place within its walls and it has witnessed many sieges. To control the castle was to hold the keys to the kingdom. Iron Age warriors understood the rock’s military potential and built a hill fort here. The castle is now a world famous visitor attraction and a key element of the Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

A PRIVATE TOUR DISCOVERING OUTLANDER SITES

Meet your driver/guide this morning and travel the short distance north west to discover many sites associated with Outlander. See Falkland (1940’s Inverness), Dysart Harbour (Le Havre)  Culross (Cranesmuir), The Kelpies, Linlithgow Palace (Wentworth Prison) with entrance, Midhope Castle with entrance (Lallybroch). View Hopetown House and Blackness Castle (Fort William) before returning to Edinburgh for an evening at your leisure.

Falkland aka 1940s Inverness: The village of Falkland stands in for 1940s Inverness with its iconic central fountain and centuries-old carved door lintels. Outlander fans can even rent a room in the B&B that Claire and Frank stay in which is the modern-day Covenanter Hotel.  

Dysart Harbour aka Le Havre (Season 2): The picturesque harbour of Dysart, with the Harbourmaster’s House, was transformed to portray the French port of Le Havre in the 1740s where Jamie and Claire landed when they escaped to France. It is also where the St. Germain’s Warehouse was based. Situated right on the Fife Coastal Path, Dysart Harbour near Kirkcaldy is part of a conservation area retaining many original buildings.

Culross aka Cranesmuir: The old village of Culross is like stepping back in time without the need for magic standing stones. The cobbled streets and painted buildings needed practically no work to transform them into Cranesmuir. You can visit Claire’s Herb Garden in the Culross Palace grounds and see the Mercat Cross which marks the site of public punishment. Walk a short way up the hill to look in at the 13th Century Culross Abbey. The grounds are free to enter, incredibly peaceful and offer a spectacular view back across the Firth of Forth.

Linlithgow Palace aka Wentworth Prison: It was mostly the inside that was used for Outlander filming but the location above Linlithgow Loch is outstanding. These historic Scotland walls doubled as the dark, dank Wentworth Prison which might come as a surprise to those that visit this bright, open ruin. 

Midhope Castle in Outlander aka Lallybroch: Starting off with a fan favourite and the most popular Outlander location – Midhope Castle. In Outlander, this is Jamie’s ancestral home and where he sweeps Claire off to after rescuing her from Cranesmuir.  In real life, Midhope Castle is part of the Hopetoun Estate just outside Edinburgh and dates from the 15th century. Unfortunately, visitors can’t access the interior of the castle which is entirely ruined, those scenes were filmed elsewhere. The iconic archway is authentic however.

Hopetoun House on the same estate as Midhope was also used in many notable Outlander scenes. One of the finest examples of Scotland’s grand architecture, the splendid Hopetoun House, doubled as the stately home of the Duke of Sandringham in season one; provided the backdrop for Parisian streets, the spare room in Jamie and Claire’s Paris apartment, and the Hawkins Estate in season two and Ellesmere and the stables at Helwater in season three. Hopetoun House has been the ancestral home of the Hope family for 300 years and one wing is still lived in by the current Earl of Hopetoun.

Blackness Castle aka Fort William  (Historic Scotland): This fortress jutting out into the Firth of Forth is known as the ship that never sailed or more commonly, Blackness Castle. Darkly named, during Outlander filming it portrayed the even darker Fort William and the site of Jamie’s flogging. There is no better word to describe Blackness Castle than grim. While it’s a long way from the real Fort William, this Scottish castle actually was used as a cold, damp, political prison. Its miserable residents were thrown into a pit that would slowly fill with seawater during high tide.

EDINBURGH TO INVERNESS OUTLANDER SITES KINLOCH RANOCH AND DEANSTON DISTILLERY

Check out of your hotel and meet a driver/guide at 9.00AM and travel North towards Inverness. Suggested stop at South Queensferry to get a great view of the Forth Bridges and it’s a beautiful little village. From there possibly stop off at the small town of Dunkeld close to the “Little Houses” (an area renovated and looked after by the National Trust) and take a wander up the lane leading to Dunkeld Cathedral which is located on the shore of the River Tay (very picturesque). Then on through Pitlochry to visit Kinloch Rannoch (aka fictional Stone Circle from Outlander) followed by lunch in a nearby pub. After lunch, we will include a stop for a scheduled tour and tasting at the Deanston Whiskey Distillery. Arrive in Inverness in the afternoon and check in to your hotel for an evening at leisure. 

Kinloch Rannoch (Season 1) (site of fictional Craigh na Dun stone circle): The idyllic area around Loch Rannoch and Kinloch Rannoch, in Highland Perthshire, was seen in the background as Claire and Frank enjoyed their second honeymoon, following the end of the war. Why not take your own tour of the area and explore the awe-inspiring scenery of high mountains and sparkling lochs as enjoyed by the couple in the first episode.  Please note the stone circle from the series was make from Styrofoam so cannot be seen however you will recognise the stunning scenery in the area from the series. The best example of standing stones can be seen on another trip to Scotland on the Island of Lewis where the Callanish Standing Stones are located.

Deanston Distillery. This is not an average distillery, some people don't like change. Keeping things just as they are. Comfortable. Good enough. Not us. We see things differently - we see change as opportunity. A chance to kick open the doors, rebel and make highland whisky that's never dull. Aye, we're not your average dram - because who wants to be average? Smooth and sweet, you can drink our single malt whisky any damn way you please. So whether you're a cocktail fan, prefer it neat or with just a drop of water, there's a Deanston whisky out there for you.  For Outlander fans, Deanston Distillery provided the setting for Jamie’s cousin’s wine warehouse on the docks of Le Havre. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery to discover the centuries-old tradition of whisky distilling.

Inverness is the largest city and the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands and attracts visitors from across the world for its natural landscapes, quaint towns, medieval ruins, and prehistoric sites.

Ness Walk:  12 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5SQ

2 nights at Ness Walk in a Cedar Room inclusive of breakfast

An idyllic 5-star retreat hotel in Inverness, surrounded by a dramatic canopy of impressive trees. The grand building allows you to experience a secluded atmosphere in the heart of the vibrant city centre. Originally a 19th century house, our lovingly restored Grade B listed building still retains many of its periodic features..

PRIVATE LOCH NESS CRUISE AND LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

This morning you will meet with your driver who will bring you to the boarding area (Urquhart Bay harbour which is 1 mile north of Drumnadrochit on the A82) for a private 1-hour cruise on Loch Ness. There will be plenty of photo opportunities so a camera today is a must! After the cruise, meet your driver and travel to Urquhart Castle for an included visit. Spend the afternoon sightseeing with your driver/guide. You can discuss options with him on the day, The battlefield at Culloden Moor is a great visit (payable locally) . Return to Inverness for an evening at your leisure.

Private Loch Ness Cruise (1 Hour): Join a local skipper for a trip lasting approximately one hour and enjoy stunning views of the Great Glen, Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle. On board, instruments monitor sub surface activity showing both bottom profile and mid water targets, which, although usually fish, are very very occasionally much larger and not readily explained.  Fun Facts, Legends and History galore from your host Gordon as you enjoy the very best views from the Loch.

Urquhart Castle. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw great conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Control of the castle passed back and forth between the Scots and English during the Wars of Independence. The power struggles continued, as the Lords of the Isles regularly raided both castle and glen up until the 1500s. The last of the government troops garrisoned here during the Jacobite Risings blew up the castle when they left. Urquhart’s iconic ruins remain, offering glimpses into medieval times and the lives of its noble residents. 

Culloden Moor Visitor Centre. Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Visit the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil. Explore the interactive visitor centre, view fascinating artefacts from both sides of the confrontation, and experience the battle in our immersive surround cinema. On 16 April 1746, the final Jacobite Rising came to a brutal head. Jacobite supporters, seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy to the British thrones, gathered to fight the Duke of Cumberland's government troops. It was the last pitched battle on British soil and, in less than an hour, around 1,500 men were slain – more than 1,000 of them Jacobites. 

The Clava Cairn is a type of Bronze Age circular chamber tomb cairn, named after the group of three cairns at Balnuaran of Clava, to the east of Inverness in Scotland. There are about 50 cairns of this type in an area round about Inverness.  Did you know that Clava Cairns prehistoric stone circle in Inverness was the inspiration for Craigh Na Dun in the Outlander novel and series? Excitingly, Outlander fans can now explore passage graves; ring cairns, kerb cairns, standing stones and burial monuments at the cairns. Moreover, they are the only cairns in Britain to be surrounded by stone circles. Conspiracy theory fans have some wild claims about the cairns. From ancient aliens to time travel portals, this ancient Scottish cemetery has provided plenty to talk about. Nonetheless, this tourist spot near Inverness is perfect for those who love mystery

OVER THE SEA TO SKYE

This morning you will meet your driver/guide for a full day tour to the Isle of Skye. En-route you will see the most photographed castle in the world, Eilean Donan. The island of Skye, connected to Scotland's northwest coast by bridge, is known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles. The largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, it has an indented coastline of peninsulas and narrow lochs, radiating out from a mountainous interior. Spend the afternoon exploring the wonderful Island and the spectacular scenery.

The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides. The capital is Portree. Villages in the north of the Island include Dunvegan, Edinbane, Uig and Staffin. Notable villages in the south of Skye include Broadford, Armadale, Carbost, Elgol and Kyle akin.  The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: dinosaur fossils, clan warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rebellion.Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit.  The Isle of Skye is also a great destination for Wildlife watching with the white tailed sea eagle at the top of bird watchers lists. Otters, seals, whales, dolphins and red deer are just some of the other impressive creatures that can be seen on and around the Isle of Skye.

Kinloch Lodge: Sleat, Isle of Skye, Scotland, IV43 8QY

2 nights at Kinloch Lodge in a Suite inclusive of breakfast

Kinloch Lodge is more than a hotel and restaurant. It’s a white jewel nestled in the hills on Scotland’s spectacular Isle of Skye

SIGHTSEEING AND ACTIVITIES ON THE ISALE OF SKYE

Today, enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye.  Below are listed some of the most amazing sights you can see.  You can discuss with your driver/guide for your preferences.  This evening is at your leisure.

• Travel over Sligachan Old Bridge 
• The Fairy Pools 
• The Old Man of Storr
• Visit Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
• The Quiraing
• The Fairy Glen Tour

Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye, is a bustling port and a thriving cultural centre. Set around its natural harbour and fringed by high ground and cliffs the town is the perfect spot for a bit of lunch. Famous for its seaside houses painted in various bright colours, Portree offers a chance for a relaxed stroll along the shore side with an ice cream. There are also several shops to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home.

SKYE TO GLASGOW VIA GLENFINNAN, FORT WILLIAM, GLENCOE AND LOCH LOMOND

This morning you will check out of your hotel and take the morning ferry for the 45-minute journey from Armadale to Mallaig admiring the spectacular scenery as you go. Travel to Fort William via Glenfinnan and time to see the monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Viaduct. You will see the majestic Glencoe and enjoy time for an optional lunch before continuing south via the Bridge of Orchy and Crianlarich and along the bonny banks of Loch Lomond.  In the evening you will arrive in Glasgow and check into your hotel. The evening is at your leisure to relax and explore.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a renowned feat of Victorian engineering and the longest concrete railway bridge in Scotland. It takes the West Highland Railway over the River Finnan 100ft below, on its journey between Fort William and Mallaig – and is one of the most picturesque train rides in the world. Built in the 1890s by ‘Concrete Bob’ McAlpine, the viaduct’s 21 huge arches were constructed using pioneering technology at the time. From our viewpoints, you can marvel at the sight and sound of the Jacobite steam train traversing the hillside and crossing the Viaduct. Made famous by the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express, you can witness this moment in spring to autumn, although our local rail service makes this same journey all year round.

Glenfinnan Monument: Moving tribute to those who died fighting for the Jacobite cause, framed by dramatic Highland scenery. Raise your bonnet to the lone Highlander on top of Glenfinnan Monument and take the dizzying climb up the tower for an unrivalled view of Loch Shiel. Discover the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the 1745 Jacobite Rising in our informative visitor centre and find out about the clans that supported him.

Glencoe: The alluring Glencoe Valley in the Scottish Highlands is most popular due to its waterfalls, peaking trails such as Buachaille Etive More and Bidean nam Bian. It is also adored for its variety of wildlife. If you wish to visit the Glencoe Folk Museum within the village, there sits 18th-century thatched cottages with displays on local heritage and the Glencoe massacre of 1692. There surrounding lush environment is sure to enchant anyone.

Fortwilliam is known as the outdoor capital of the Scottish Highlands with its stunning landscapes, fascinating museums and authentic ales and whiskeys.There is a huge range of outdoors activities to suit every ability from mountain climbing, water sports to fishing and walking to name but a few.

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park: The National Park is famous for a reason: the scenery is stunning. From the Arrochar Alps to the island habitats of Loch Lomond, the views from the top of Ben Lomond to the Falls of Dochart, there’s a breath-taking view practically everywhere you go. At the heart of the park is Loch Lomond itself. You won't find a bigger loch or lake in the whole of Britain and you'll have a hard time finding a more beautiful one, too. You have the option to take a cruise on the waters and admire the mighty bulk of Ben Lomond, Scotland's most southerly Munro, as well as the jagged shoulders of the Arrochar Alps. You could maybe even visit one of the loch's 30 islands. 

Glasgow: Scotland's most populated City sits on the banks of the Clyde and is well known for its excellent shopping, food and nightlife and various tourist attractions and landmarks. Home to Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland, as well as acclaimed museums and a thriving music scene

Blythswood Square Hotel:11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4AD

Overnight at Blythswood Square Hotel in a Premium Garden View Room inclusive of breakfast

Blythswood Square has been a prestigious address since the early 19th century. Overlooking a private garden square, the hotel's Georgian townhouses were originally home to wealthy merchants and were later turned into the club headquarters for The Royal Scottish Automobile Club.

PRIVATE DEPARTURE TRANSFER TO GLASGOW OR EDINBURGH AIRPORT

After breakfast this morning we include a private transfer to Glasgow Airport. Please be ready in the hotel lobby

We simply want you to focus on having an incredible time. It’s that simple.

All our suggested tours are created by locals, using years of country knowledge. It’s your tour though. That’s why any of our itineraries can be tailored to exactly suit your needs. And that might mean fitting it to your budget. Do you have a particular destination in mind, We can include any specific request, so please ask.

Please note that we can also use some or all 4-star hotels in great locations. We can adjust services to meet your wish list, your requirements and your budget.

The Cost for this Wonderful Private Tour to Scotland as shown online based on 2 Guests sharing a room ranges from UK POUNDS £7695 - £9995 per person sharing.

Utilising wonderful 4-star hotels in great locations, the price range will be from UK£6295 - £6995

Please see below for complete list of included services.

Accommodation is included for 8 nights at the following hotels including breakfast.

Accommodation

Nts    City        Hotel    

3    Edinburgh    Balmoral Hotel - Deluxe King Room
2    Inverness     Ness Walk - Cedar King Room
2    Isle of Sky    Kinloch Lodge - King Suite
1    Glasgow       Blythswood Square - Premium Garden View Room

Transport

• Private Arrival Transfer Edinburgh
• Private driver/guide to Discover Outlander Sites
• Private driver/guide Edinburgh to Inverness 
• Private driver/guide for Private Loch Ness Cruise and Local Sightseeing
• Private driver/guide Inverness to the Isle of Skye
• Private driver/duide At Your Disposal For Sightseeing And Activities
• Private driver /guide to Glasgow Via Fort William, Glencoe and Loch Lomond
• Private Departure Transfer Glasgow Airport

Services

• Private Half Day Edinburgh Walking Tour
• Edinburgh Castle - Skip the Line Entrance Fee
• Midhope Castle aka Lallybroch
• Kinloch Rannoch - Skip the Line Entrance Fee
• Deanston Distillery Tour - small group tour
• Private Cruise on Loch Ness
• Clava Cairn
• Urquhart Castle - Skip the Line Entrance Fee

We also include hotel taxes and fees, (please note that city tax is payable locally) communication costs and the help of our local travel experts throughout your trip; 24/7.

What's Not Included

• Your flights to and from Europe
• Gratuities and tips to driver-guides and local guides
• Anything that we’ve not mentioned above

BOOKING: The proposal is subject to availability and subject to our terms and conditions available on request. To book we require a 30% deposit which is non-refundable as required to pre-book all services.  We accept payments by credit card or by bank transfer. The balance of your trip would be due by 60 days prior to travel.  We strongly suggest taking out travel insurance with your local broker or online provider.